(Newser)
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Scientists have unlocked the mystery of a special ingredient in red wine that could increase lifespan and promote health in humans. The organic compound resveratrol aids the body by jump-starting the activity of mitochondria—the power suppliers of cells, reports the Daily Mail. Resveratrol, which occurs naturally in red wine, is credited with combating cancer, obesity, and aging.

In previous experiments, resveratrol prolonged the lifespan of mice that were fed a junk food diet. Scientists behind the current study found that the plant compound does not work without a specific gene, SIRT1, and their research could lead to drugs that mimic the effects of resveratrol. That way, people don't have to become heavy drinkers to get the benefits: "The amounts we gave to our mice would be like drinking 100 glasses of red wine a day," says one researcher, according to HealthDay.

The problem with resveratrol is it has an extremely low bio-availability. It is nearly all broken down by the digestive system and any minuscule amounts that made it to the bloodstream would be quickly broken down by the liver. You can buy resveratrol supplements but that would be like flushing your money down the toilet. Pterostilbene is more promising as it seems to do the same thing resveratrol does but is a lot more bio-available. It can actually get absorbed into the bloodstream and stick around long enough to have a positive effect.

myflap.blow

May 2, 2012 10:06 PM CDT

reversetroll? is that another word for "Most liked member"? btw, I just discovered the little Expand Community Box button right there next to the DISQUS button! Congrats guys!

fractal

May 2, 2012 6:34 PM CDT

Alcohol is just not my vice, but I take a capsule of resveratrol every other day. With all the toxic compounds we are exposed to, it makes sense.